Director of Finance

Director Of Finance

The Director of Finance serves as the chief financial strategist and steward for The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, providing both operational leadership and long-term financial direction. This executive-level position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization's financial health - including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, risk management, and compliance. In close partnership with the Executive Director and senior leadership team, the Director ensures that financial systems, strategies, and decisions support Legal Aid's mission and long-term sustainability. The Director also serves as a trusted advisor to the Board of Directors and Finance Committee, offering insights and recommendations that align resources with strategic priorities.

Essential Functions

• Strategic Financial Leadership
• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with Legal Aid's mission, goals, and strategic plan.
• Serve as a strategic thought partner to the Executive Director and senior team on organizational growth, sustainability, and resource allocation.
• Lead long-term financial planning and forecasting, including scenario modeling to inform strategic decisions.
• Represent Legal Aid in financial matters with the Board, funders, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Financial Management and Analysis
• Oversee all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, analysis, cash flow management, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and reconciliations.
• Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and ensure accuracy of all financial records and systems.
• Conduct financial modeling and work with data management to develop internal dashboards that support data-driven decision-making.
• Monitor cash reserves, investment accounts, and restricted funds; ensure appropriate controls are in place to safeguard assets.
• Budgeting and Reporting
• Lead the organization-wide budgeting process, working collaboratively with executive and program leadership to develop realistic and mission-aligned budgets.
• Prepare and present monthly and quarterly financial reports to the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Finance Committee.
• Track performance against budget, identify variances, and provide analysis and recommendations.
• Ensure financial transparency and timely reporting to stakeholders.
• Compliance, Auditing, and Risk Management
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Oversee preparation of annual tax filings (e.g., IRS Form 990) and all required reports to funders and regulatory bodies.
• Coordinate and manage annual audits and act as liaison with external auditors.
• Review and approve all organizational policies and procedures related to finance, procurement, insurance, and internal controls.
• Maintain oversight of financial risk management, including insurance coverage and financial contingency planning.
• Board and Committee Engagement
• Serve as primary liaison to the Finance Committee and collaborate with Board members on financial oversight.
• Provide clear, concise updates to the Board regarding financial performance, risk, and opportunities.
• Assist in the development of board-level financial policies and ensure governance best practices are followed.
• Finance Operational Oversight
• Supervise and support staff responsible for bookkeeping, payroll, purchasing, and financial systems.
• Review and approve financial entries, invoices, and transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain and oversee the organization's accounting systems and fixed asset inventory.
• Ensure timely completion of month-end and year-end close processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervises the controller, accountants, and bookkeeper.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in related field or commensurate experience required.
• 15+ years' experience in finance or accounting including supervisory experience.
• Experience in working with non-profits and/or legal services organizations preferred.
• Proficient technology skills, including in MS Office, Windows and databases.
• Advanced skills in Excel, accounting and payroll software.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including attentiveness to cultural needs and differences.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Able to establish effective working relationships with a variety of individuals.
• Organized, prioritize work, plan and problem-solve, meet deadlines and work well under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Highly skilled at analyzing and interpreting financial data.
• Knowledge of federal and state employment and benefits laws and government compliance.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Normal office environment.
• Regular evenings, weekend and early morning hours.
• Some travel required.

Success Factors

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and access to opportunity for and with people who have low incomes.
• Proactive and forward-thinking approach to financial leadership.
• Interact cordially and treat clients, staff and the public with dignity and respect.
• Appreciate diverse cultures and communities.
• Positively contribute as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to work independently.
• Use a high level of professionalism, diplomacy and judgment.
• Address issues in a timely manner.
• Maintain strict confidence regarding client and sensitive matters.

Compensation & Benefits

The 2026-27 salary range for Director of Finance is $138,978 $210,058. The top third of Legal Aid's salary ranges are reserved for those with deep skill sets, long tenure, and consistent exceptional performance. In addition, Legal Aid offers an exceptional benefits package including healthcare, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plan with up to 13% employer contribution, and much more.

Legal Aid is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate because of age, race, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.